Describes how to take a set of Gerber files representing a multi-layer PCB and import them into SolidWorks. The import includes a function that generates the. The Generate Output Files dialog can be opened at any time, with a schematic open, a PCB open, or no document open - click the. Button on the Project tab to open the dialog. Note that when you open the dialog the special file that holds the output settings is automatically created in the project folder, so the project file will now be marked. Working with circuit boards/gerber files I have designed a custom circuit board that I now want to model a case for, is there a way I can import the gerber files into Fusion to work with? Will Fusion create a model based on those files so I can test fit components before 3D printing the case? Describes how to take a set of Gerber files representing a multi-layer PCB and import them into SolidWorks. The import includes a function that generates the. Describes how to convert a simple PCB consisting of two conductor layers (Gerber) and a drill file (for vias) into a 3D Model in Solidworks. This approach uses Netex-G to create a 3Di file.

1. Solidworks Pcb Tutorial Pdf
2. Solidworks Pcb Open Gerber Files Free

For clients using Altium Designer, this guide will help you configure and output Gerber files as well as NC Drill files in RS274X format. It is assumed that you have finished designing your schematic as well as PCB layout. You should have both a .SchDoc file (schematic) and a .PcbDoc file (PCB layout) at this stage.

Generating Gerber Files

Step 1: First, navigate to “File” tab at the top left corner of the program window. Next select “Fabrication Outputs” and in that drop-down menu select “Gerber Files”.
Step 2:

Solidworks Pcb Tutorial Pdf

Once Gerber Files is selected the window below will appear which will allow you to specify the units and number digits before or after the decimal point.
Step 3: Next, using the tabs at the top of the window, navigate to the “Layers” tab. This will allow you to select which layers will be used for the output gerber files. If you are unsure which layers will be used, select the “Plot Layers” tab in the bottom left of the window and click “All ON” so it is highlighted. This will select all possible layers in the project for output.

Solidworks Pcb Open Gerber Files Free

Step 4: Afterward, using the tabs at the top of the window again, navigate to the “Apertures” tab. While in this window, ensure that the “Embedded Apertures (RS274X)” box is checked. The rest of the window can be left in its default settings.
Step 5: Finally, once again using the tabs at the top of the window, navigate to the “Advanced” tab. The settings in this window can be left default unless your design has special requirements. When you are finished press “Ok” in the bottom right of the window which will begin the output process for your gerber files.
Step 6: Once your main layer files are completed you need to output your NC Drill files. When fabricating your PCBs, these files indicate the size and placement of the holes which will be drilled for vias, mounting points, etc. First, return to the top left of the program and select “File”. In the drop-down menu select “Fabrication Outputs” and then “NC Drill Files”.
Step 7: The previous step will open up the NC Drill File setup window. This will allow you to specific units and the number of digits before or after the decimal. This window can be left default unless your project requires specific parameters.
Step 8: Finally, if you have saved all your files in one location you should have a similar number of files as shown in the picture below. Remember when submitting your files, it is best to compress the files in a .zip file to ensure they remain grouped together.
If you still find any steps involved in this process, please do not hesitate to contact a member of the Bittele Electronics sales team by sending an email to sales@7pcb.com, or calling our Toronto office at 1-416-800-7540. We are happy to help with any questions or concerns you may have and we look forward to working with you.
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Gerber files are a key piece to the puzzle for manufacturing printed circuit boards. They contain all the necessary data that a PCB manufacture will require to produce the boards to your exact specifications accurately. Advanced Circuits offers free tools like our PCB Artist Design Software simplifies the way you transfer your design files to us for fabrication. Our FreeDFM Gerber file check tool is another way Advanced Circuits makes it easier to ensure all your files are complete before placing your order.

In this post, we discuss the basics of printed circuit board Gerber files. For more detailed information about Gerber file generations and our requirements, click here. For more PCB design and manufacturing resources, visit our PCB Engineering & CAM Resources page.

What are PCB Gerber Files

A Gerber file is basically an image of a PCB. It showcases each individual layer as it appears throughout your circuit design. Gerber files represent copper layers images, solder mask, legend, and drill and route data helping to simplify the process of seeing how the circuit board should be fabricated. The Gerber files also contain attributes that provide meta-information about these images, such as whether a graphics object is and SMD pad, a via pad, a fiducial, or any other type of element.

Multiple programs have the ability to read a Gerber file format due to its simplicity, yet detailed descriptions of its contents. They additionally assist in locating potential issues and debugging of the circuit design when uploaded to our FreeDFM file check tool. When submitting a Gerber file, it is wise to send a straightforward text (.txt) file with the explanation of the requirements that may not appear in the file as a note to the PCB manufacturer.

What’s Included in PCB Gerber Files

When exporting the set of Gerber files for your PCB design, you will notice there is a set of individual files with different extensions which should be saved as a zipped folder to send over to the PCB manufacturer. These files are the following elements of your circuit board design:

• Top Silkscreen
• Top Soldermask
• Top Copper
• Top Solderpaste
• Inner Copper
• Bottom Copper
• Bottom Soldermask
• Bottom Silkscreen
• Bottom Solderpaste
• NC Drill
• Non Plated Drill
• Slots
• Drawing/Other

When submitting your files for PCB fabrication, you will need to map your files (match) to the elements mentioned above. Common file name extensions are listed in the image below.